Pakatan files 'no-confidence motion'

The opposition Pakatan Rakyat coalition has today moved an urgent motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Opposition Leader Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (PKR-Permatang Pauh) filed the motion at the Dewan Rakyat speaker's office at 3.45pm.

Among others, the motion stated that the 12^th general election witnessed a 'political tsunami' which saw five states and the Federal Territories falling into the hands of the Pakatan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional being denied a two-thirds majority.

"BN achieved its slim victory by manipulating the Election Commission and through lies.

"The price of fuel was suddenly raised after the elections although the deputy premier - while launching the election manifesto - promised this would not happen.

"BN parliamentarians who rejected this irresponsible action of their leaders are threatened and forced not to speak out.

"This development has caused a crisis of confidence with the prime minister and his cabinet. The people are facing several crises such as an increase in the prices of fuel and foodstuff.

"In addition, the people's confidence in the police, attorney-general and judiciary is also on the decline. Crime and corruption is on the rise."

'Voice of the people'

Should the motion be accepted, it is likely to be debated on Monday when Parliament resumes after the weekend break. The House does not sit on Friday.

However, the motion may not see the light of day as the House speaker has the power to reject it on the ground that it is not urgent.

Moveover, only a one-hour debate will be set aside for such motions and no vote would be taken.

Last month, BN component Sabah Progressive Party (Sapp) stunned the nation when it said it would back a no-confidence vote against Abdullah.

However, it has decided to hold back on its plan. Meanwhile, the ruling BN has issued the rebel party a show-cause letter.

At a press conference, Wan Azizah said Pakatan's decision to move the motion was influenced by the rakyat as well as disgruntled members in BN.

"Pakatan Rakyat is the voice of the people who voted for us and we are speaking for those on the other side who dare not speak.

Kit Siang: Let there be a debate

DAP stalwart Lim Kit Siang (DAP-Ipoh Timur) who was also present expressed hoped that the motion would be allowed next Monday.

He said this would be an opportunity to engage whether the level of confidence has deteriorated or otherwise.

Met later, House speaker Pandikar Amin said he would make a decision on whether allow the motion.

"Since there is no session tomorrow, I will only make my decision on Monday and will think deeply about it over the weekend," he added.

Pandikar Amin said he would not bow down to pressure from all sides and would exercise the powers permitted under the Standing Orders.

Watch a 7-min video of Pakatan's press conference and the Speaker's reaction.